Length-Case head to Bullet Tip

[kup1236]

I check my Ruger Hawkeye .223 and find out that OAL of 2.297 doesn't touch riflings and will still fit in the mag. I back off to 2.273 starting point
Loading 55gr Ballistic Tip-Using a dial caliper I set die to seat 2.273 length from Case head to bullet tip. I check every loaded round and they run from 2.268 to 2.278--I think something must be wore out on my press to differ that much. I deciede to check factory loads.
I check some factory 55 gr FMJ They differ from 2.09 to 2.334
On some I can't see the cannelure, some I see all of it.
I guess I will just have to see how my loads shoot.
I didn't think there would be that much length difference in my loads.
I am open to all comments.

 

[YoteSmoker]

Trim your cases .010 below max so they are all the same length after sizing and see if that doesn't make your OAL a lot more consistent when seating the bullets. The most consistent way is not to measure to the tip but to use a comparator measuring to the bullet ogive.

 

[kup1236]

They are all new Winchester cases, and I didn't check them or trim them.
I did full length resize and chamfer them.
Next batch I will trim and reply.
Thank you.

 

[rick smith]

kup1236, the variation in your measurements is not unusual. Bullet length varies especially on the tip. The position on the ogive where your seating stem makes contact can vary with the change in ogive position on bullets out of the same box. How you operate the press can also effect the seating depth. As Yotesmoker suggest, use a comparator to measure seating depth. Your numbers will probably be more consistant.Rick.

 

[kup1236]

Yes, I do need a comparator.

What I thought was strange is looking at the factory loads, some the crimp misses the cannelure-that really shows you need to trim cases.

I didn't think case length would make so much difference with my loads,not crimping or a having a cannelure.

Thank you,